BMX riders and cyclists local and afar are moving up a gear with a new, upgraded facilities now officially open in Shepparton.
The upgrades, funded by the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, were ready in time for Shepparton BMX Club to host Australia’s top BMX races for the 2025 AusCycling BMX Racing National Series held over the weekend.
The major cycling event brought thousands of competitors and fans to Shepparton and provided a big boost for local businesses and the visitor economy.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence opened the Shepparton BMX Track and Cycling Precinct Upgrades in a ribbon cutting ceremony last week.
The project has delivered a new two-storey pavilion that will give spectators better views of the BMX track and serve as a new hub for events and community gatherings. The new pavilion provides accessible and all gender toilets, meeting space, storage, a first aid room, catering facilities, a flexible event space and an outdoor undercover viewing area.
Other upgrades include enhancements to the BMX track and start hills – improving conditions for riders, spectators and broadcasters, and enabling easier track maintenance.
Additionally, new lighting installed at the adjacent velodrome will support night training, competitions and major cycling and BMX events, drawing thousands to the region.
The velodrome lights were completed in time for the Shepparton Cycling Club to host the opening event for the Victorian State Christmas Track Carnival Series on December 28, 2024.
The upgrades have been delivered in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council and local Shepparton companies, creating more than 76 jobs and engaging more than 50 businesses along the way.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Cr Shane Sali said, “Our region is well known for BMX and cycling, with our local clubs having great success on and off the track. These upgrades are a game changer for BMX and cycling in Greater Shepparton, ensuring we are ready and able to host world class events, attracting riders and spectators nationally and internationally to our region.”
The project is complemented by upgrades at the nearby VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium and Shepparton Sports City, supported by $3M from the Victorian Government’s Council Support Package, which came from the cancelled Commonwealth Games. These upgrades are now under way and will make the venues more accessible and enjoyable for the community, delivering benefits that may have been realised from hosting the Games.
